XRP Falls as US-Israel Strikes Iran Spark Market Risk Off

XRP slipped sharply on February 28. After fresh geopolitical tensions rattled global markets. The drop came as reports emerged of major U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. This quickly pushed investors into risk-off mode. XRP traded near $1.29, down about 7% in 24 hours, according to market trackers. 

The selloff was not isolated. BTC, ETH and major altcoins also pulled back. As traders reacted to rising Middle East uncertainty. While some analysts expect a possible rebound if tensions cool. The immediate mood across crypto markets remains cautious.

Middle East Escalation Triggers

Market nerves spiked after multiple reports pointed to direct military escalation. That involves the US, Israel and Iran. Regional reports say Iranian forces responded. By targeting US military assets across parts of the Middle East. Such geopolitical shocks often push investors away from volatile assets. 

Crypto markets tend to react quickly. Because they trade around the clock and have deep leverage exposure. As fear spread, traders reduced risk. Then moved capital into safer assets like the U.S. dollar and gold. The tone online also turned tense. Market watchers warned that continued escalation could keep pressure on risk assets in the near term.

XRP Falls Alongside Broader Crypto Market

XRP’s drop reflects the wider crypto pullback. Rather than any Ripple specific development. The token fell roughly 7.3% over 24 hours. It is bringing the price near the $1.29 level. Meanwhile, other major assets also weakened. 

Chart: XRP Price (USD) on Coingecko on February 28, 2026

ETH saw sharper percentage losses during parts of the session. While BTC briefly dipped as traders unwound leveraged positions. Liquidations across derivatives platforms added to the downward momentum. Despite the drop, XRP still holds a relatively strong position. In comparison with deeper corrections seen in past geopolitical shocks. Some analysts note that the move so far looks like a typical risk reaction rather than a structural breakdown.

Volatility Highlights Crypto’s Sensitivity to Global Events

The latest swing again shows how sensitive digital assets remain to macro headlines. Unlike traditional markets that close overnight. Crypto reacts instantly to breaking news. This often amplifies short term volatility. Historically, major geopolitical events like the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict. Often triggered double-digit crypto corrections before markets later stabilized. 

Because of this pattern, some traders are watching closely for signs of panic selling versus normal risk repricing. Derivatives data suggests leveraged traders were caught offside during the sudden move. When prices fall quickly, forced liquidations can accelerate the drop.

What to Expect?

Looking ahead, XRP’s next move will likely depend more on macro conditions. Rather than on crypto specific news. If tensions in the Middle East ease. The risk appetite could return quickly. Crypto markets have often rebounded fast after geopolitical scares. But if the conflict expands or uncertainty drags on. The volatility may remain elevated. Traders are now closely watching military updates and broader market sentiment. For now, XRP’s pullback reflects a familiar crypto reality. When global fear rises, digital assets rarely stay calm for long.

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